Hochul’s Conflict-of-Interest Policy Under Scrutiny as Actions Appear to Benefit Husband’s Firm

Governor Hochul agreed to recuse herself from decisions directly involving her husband’s company, Delaware North, but has taken actions that could benefit the firm or hurt competitors.
In three recent cases involving gambling or concessions, New York state took actions aligned with Delaware North’s interests.
The disputes over Seneca-run casinos show how hard it is for Hochul to create an effective firewall between her role as governor and Delaware North’s many state-regulated interests.
Critics argue Hochul’s recusal policy lacks independent enforcement.
There are questions about whether Hochul’s policies indirectly aid her husband’s company, especially in Buffalo, Hochul’s hometown.